White Rhatany
Krameria grayiiHeight: Typically 1 to 3 feet tall
Habitat: Dry, rocky soils in deserts and scrublands
Elevation: Found up to about 6,000 feet
Range: Southwestern United States, especially in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and northern Mexico
Description:
White Rhatany is a small, woody shrub with tangled gray-green stems and small leaves. It has unusual reddish-purple flowers and is partly parasitic—it taps into the roots of nearby plants for extra water and nutrients. The plant gets its name from the grayish cast of its stems and foliage.
Uses:
Medicinal: Native peoples used the root for treating digestive issues, sore throats, and wounds. The root contains tannins with astringent properties.
Cultural: Sometimes used as a dye or for ceremonial purposes.
Ecological: Attracts native bees and other pollinators.
Note:
White Rhatany is a tough, desert-adapted survivor. It’s not flashy, but it plays a quiet, important role in its ecosystem and has a long history of traditional use.
